A quiet Saturday gathering at an east Charlotte church turned into chaos when masked federal agents conducted a sudden immigration raid. About 20 members were doing yard work and preparing meals when agents arrived unannounced, according to church leaders and witnesses. The agents, reportedly with U.S. Border Patrol, detained one man and attempted to apprehend others without providing identification or explanation.
Families Traumatized as Agents Detain Church Member
Witnesses say agents stormed the property without warning, frightening adults and children alike. The detained man’s wife and child were inside the church during the incident. “One of these guys with immigration, he say he was going to arrest one of the other guys in the church. He pushed him,” the pastor stated. Several members fled into nearby woods, unsure of who was being targeted. “I thought, ‘Wait, why am I running? I’m a citizen,’” said 15-year-old Miguel Vazquez, who was present during the raid.
Congregation Halts Activities Amid Growing Fear
The church, located off Albemarle Road, has suspended all services and volunteer activities indefinitely. Vazquez and others say they can’t return until they feel safe from unexpected raids. “We thought church was safe and nothing gonna happen,” he said. “But it did happen.” The decision reflects the emotional toll the incident has had on families and children who witnessed the event firsthand.
Supporters Cite Public Safety, Critics Decry Violation of Religious Sanctuary
Supporters of immigration enforcement argue that federal agents are fulfilling legal duties, even on private property. However, detractors see the unannounced raid as a violation of religious sanctuary and a disruption to peaceful community life. Civil rights advocates are concerned that such actions set a troubling precedent for how and where immigration laws are enforced.
Ongoing Anxiety in Charlotte’s Immigrant Communities
The incident has left a lingering fear in the local immigrant community. Church leaders are calling for transparency and accountability from federal agencies. Meanwhile, families continue to reel from the emotional impact and uncertainty of future raids.
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Church members flee as federal agents arrive at east Charlotte place of worship
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